Don’t Judge a Book By Its Cover: A Case for Elmhurst University Sororities

Photo by Ian Murphy

What are some of the first words to describe a stereotypical sorority? Spray tans, bleached hair, TikTok dances, booze, and bodies. Every word that comes to mind has a negative connotation.

Big school sorority life can have a poor connotation, Elmhurst University’s doesn’t have to. How can you really judge a book if you’ve never been one to read?

Coming into EU, I was ultimately surprised to see such a positive light shed on Greek life. I guess I never understood until I joined EU’s chapter of Phi Mu.

Each sorority focuses on one or more central philanthropy organizations, generally centering their programming for the year around supporting their cause. In the case of my chapter, it’s the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.

Other sororities support causes like women’s heart health, Alzheimer’s awareness and research, and mental health awareness and support.

EU has four social sororities to choose from, not to mention the two cultural sororities. Each of them has their own philanthropy which they support through fundraising, volunteer work, and awareness campaigns.

The sororities at EU support equity and inclusion. They work to ensure all women feel comfortable and empowered by one another–not compared. One of the ways they do this is through a smaller and more personalized pledge class.

EU’s pledge classes typically include 10-15 new members each year, compared to 50-70 at larger schools.

When rushing a sorority at the University of Kansas, one of my close friends, Emma Siether mentioned; ”Honestly, [I] never really cared to learn everyone’s name.”

How can you call that a sisterhood, when in reality they are just strangers to you?

In contrast, EU’s smaller size fosters genuine connections, allowing members to truly get to know one another on a deeper level than just names and majors.

The campus sororities host numerous activities and events throughout the year but promote voluntary participation rather than imposing strict attendance requirements. This aims to make activities enjoyable, rather than obligatory. It encourages girls to participate in what they are passionate about, rather than what they are assigned.

Finances may not come easy to some college students. Membership fees, colloquially known as “dues,” cost about one-third the average price compared to large universities. Not only are dues reasonable, but sorority presidents and officer boards can often offer solutions, discounts, or payment plans for those who face financial difficulties, so they never feel alone, and have a chance to participate fully.

Sororities at EU are designed to create a supportive and enjoyable experience for those who join. They are a great way to get involved on campus and step outside of your comfort zone.

EU’s sorority life works to erase the image of the big school sorority. Forget the bleach, the boys, and the booze. Go find your future bridesmaids.